Emily Alcock

Why did you choose to study at the University of Birmingham?

Before starting my PhD, I completed my undergraduate degree in Biomedical Science at the University of Birmingham. I chose to study at UoB because of its beautiful campus, strong commitment to research and the welcoming atmosphere I experienced at the open day. Everyone was so enthusiastic, and it was clear that there was a strong support network available for students.

After such a positive experience during my undergraduate studies, both academically and personally, choosing to stay at UoB for my PhD felt like an easy decision. The University's excellent research environment, alongside networking opportunities and social activities created a supportive research community and made it an inspiring place to continue my academic journey.

What made you choose your course, and what interested you most about the subject?

I first chose to study BSc Biomedical Science because I was fascinated by how the human body works, how diseases develop, and how scientific research has led to treatments that improve people's health. I particularly enjoyed the breadth of topics covered during the degree and the opportunity to specialise in areas that interested me most in my final year.

It was during this final year that I discovered my passion for cardiovascular science. My dissertation research project, supervised by Professor Janice Marshall, involved comparing different methods of measuring blood flow in human participants. I really enjoyed working directly with research participants and using non-invasive techniques to investigate vascular function, which gave me valuable hands-on research experience. Through this project, I became fascinated by vascular physiology and the role that diet plays in cardiovascular health.

Because of my enthusiasm for the subject, Professor Marshall offered me the opportunity to continue my research within her laboratory as a PhD student. Building on my undergraduate project, my PhD investigated how following the NHS Eatwell Guide influences vascular function in young adults, allowing me to combine my interests in cardiovascular physiology, nutrition, and participant-based clinical research.

What do you enjoy most about your PhD?

What I enjoy most about my PhD is the balance between independence and support. I have the flexibility to plan my own work and manage my own timetable, while researching a topic that genuinely interests me. It's incredibly rewarding to feel that I'm contributing new knowledge to the field and making a meaningful contribution to cardiovascular research.

Although I have a great deal of autonomy in my project, I've always had a supportive supervisory and pastoral team to guide me whenever I've needed it, so I've never felt like I was navigating my PhD alone.

I've also really valued the sense of community within the College. Even though every PhD project is unique, there are plenty of opportunities to connect with other researchers through seminars, networking events, and conferences. One of my highlights was presenting my research as a poster at the School of III Research Conference, where I had the opportunity to share my work and discuss it with researchers from across the school.

Alongside my research, I've really enjoyed supporting undergraduate teaching in practical classes. It has been incredibly rewarding to help students develop their skills and confidence in the laboratory, while also developing my own communication and teaching abilities. These experiences have reinforced my passion for teaching and have been one of the most enjoyable parts of my PhD.

How would you describe the research environment, supervision and support you've received during your studies?

I would describe the research environment at UoB as both supportive and collaborative. During my PhD, I experienced some personal challenges, including the passing of my original supervisor, Professor Janice Marshall, and I was incredibly grateful for the support available across the University during this transition. My supervisory team provided excellent academic and personal support, ensuring that I felt guided and supported throughout this period.

Beyond supervision, the wider support network within the College of Medicine and Health has been invaluable. The wellbeing team are approachable, knowledgeable, and always willing to help or signpost students to the right resources when needed.

The research environment itself is outstanding, with academics and researchers across the University being very open to collaboration and sharing their expertise. I have benefited from working alongside researchers who have supported me in developing new skills and techniques, while also having opportunities to contribute to the wider research community through monthly PGR seminars and national conferences. Presenting my research to both academic audiences and members of the public has been a particularly rewarding part of my PhD journey.

How have your studies helped you develop the knowledge and skills you'll need for your future career?

Whether I decide to continue in academia and research after completing my PhD or pursue a different career path, the transferable skills I have developed throughout my studies will be invaluable.

My PhD has given me a high level of independence, allowing me to plan my own workload, manage competing priorities, and make informed decisions while knowing when to seek guidance and support. My communication skills and confidence in public speaking have also grown significantly through presenting posters and oral communications both within and outside the University, as well as through working directly with research participants.

Alongside my research, my involvement in undergraduate teaching has strengthened my ability to communicate complex scientific concepts clearly and adapt my approach to different audiences. Supporting students has also helped me develop my confidence and has been a particularly rewarding aspect of my PhD experience.

I have developed strong critical thinking skills, learning how to analyse and interpret complex information, evaluate evidence, and draw meaningful conclusions from research findings. I have also strengthened my organisation, problem-solving, and technical skills through managing a research project from design through to completion.

Overall, my PhD has provided me with a broad skill set that will support me in a wide range of future careers, both within and beyond research.

What are your career goals after completing your PhD, and how have your studies prepared you to achieve them?

At this stage, I am still exploring the career path I would like to pursue after completing my PhD, but I am excited by the range of opportunities available to me. Throughout my studies, I have received valuable support from the careers team, which has helped me explore different options and identify the skills and experiences I would like to develop further.

My confidence in public speaking and my enjoyment of supporting undergraduate students during their research projects have encouraged me to consider a career in higher education, such as becoming a Teaching Fellow, or potentially completing a PGCE to teach Biology. I have particularly enjoyed the opportunity to communicate scientific concepts, support students' development, and help them build confidence in their own abilities.

Alongside this, I have also developed an interest in medical communications through the enjoyment I have found in writing my thesis and synthesising complex research findings into clear and accessible messages. My PhD has also given me the confidence to become a qualified group fitness instructor, which I plan to continue alongside my future career.

Ultimately, my PhD has equipped me with a broad range of skills, from communication and teaching to critical thinking and project management, giving me the flexibility to pursue a variety of rewarding career paths. I am excited to see where these skills and experiences will take me next.